What do I do if I have Bad Breath?

Chronic bad
breath, also known as halitosis, is an oral health condition that is caused by
poor dental hygiene or certain foods and health conditions.

In most cases, bad
breath can be really embarrassing, especially if other people get an accidental
whiff of it. The unpleasant odour of bad breath is so nasty that it has the
potential to cause many issues in the life of someone who is suffering from it.
Bad breath can ruin relationships, produce embarrassing moments, drive away
someone you fancy, and even cause anxiety.

However, there are steps you can take to reduce or even eliminate bad breath.

Visit the Dentist Regularly

First and foremost, before trying any other tips, it’s important for preventative dentistry that you see your dentist regularly. If you have some form of mouth disease that is causing your breath to stink, a simple visit to the dentist can pinpoint what the exact problem is, which makes it easier to fix the smelly issue. But whether you have mouth disease or not, a dentist will be able to provide dental services or the right solution for your bad breath problem.

Brush Your Teeth Twice/Thrice a Day

While this is a
no-brainer, some people struggle to follow an oral hygiene routine due to
either laziness or lack of discipline. What these type of people need to
realize is that brushing your teeth at least twice a day can help fight bad
breath as it removes any plaque and food debris accumulated throughout the day.
For ideal results, brush your teeth thrice a day – in the morning, after lunch,
and before going to bed.

Floss After Every Meal

Flossing is an
underappreciated aspect of oral hygiene that plays an important role in
preventing bacteria from building up in your mouth. It will remove any stubborn
food debris stuck between your teeth, which can be a breeding ground for bad
breath-causing bacteria if left unremoved.

Use a Mouthwash

One of the best
ways to avoid oral health issues and fight bad breath is using a mouthwash in
conjunction with brushing and flossing. The three are like the holy trinity of
good oral hygiene. Using a mouthwash helps freshen the breath, remove any loose
particles, and stop cavities from forming. Depending on your preference, you
can either make your own mouthwash using natural ingredients or buy a mouthwash
product from the local store.

Drink Plenty of Water Daily

Dry mouth is
among the common causes of bad breath, but you can fight it by drinking lots of
water daily as water can improve saliva flow and keep your mouth moist. Saliva
is essential for moistening and cleansing our mouth throughout the day. It also
helps prevent the onset of bacterial and fungal infections by keeping them at
bay. If you have dry mouth, it means that your body isn’t producing enough
saliva for your mouth.